SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PROJECT (SFMP)

Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) Densu Estuary Oyster Harvesting

Bortianor/Tsokomey, Ga-South Municipal Assembly,

Greater Accra Region, Ghana

FEBRUARY 2017

TRY Oyster Women’s

Association, The Gambia

i

This publication is available electronically on the Coastal Resources Center’s website at

http://www.crc.uri.edu/projects_page/ghanasfmp/

For more information on the Ghana Sustainable Fisheries Management Project, contact:

USAID/Ghana Sustainable Fisheries Management Project

Coastal Resources Center

Graduate School of Oceanography

University of Rhode Island

220 South Ferry Rd.

Narragansett, RI 02882 USA

Tel: 401-874-6224 Fax: 401-874-6920 Email: info@crc.uri.edu

Citation: Janha, F., Ashcroft, M., & Mensah, J. (2017) Participatory Rural Appraisal

(PRA) of the Densu Estuary Oyster Harvesting, Bortianor/Tsokomey, Ga- South Municipal

Assembly, Greater Accra Region, Ghana. TRY Oyster Women’s Association,

Development Action Association and Hen Mpoano. Coastal Resources Center, University

of Rhode Island. GH2014_ACT148_DAA. 35 pp.

Authority/Disclaimer:

Prepared for USAID/Ghana under Cooperative Agreement (AID-641-A-15-00001) awarded

on October 22, 2014 to the University of Rhode Island and entitled; the USAID/Ghana

Sustainable Fisheries Management Project (SFMP).

The views expressed and opinions contained in this report are those of the SFMP team and

are not intended as statements of policy of either USAID or the cooperating organizations. As

such, the contents of this report are the sole responsibility of the SFMP Project team and do

not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

Cover Photos: Photo 1: Oyster shells from the Densu Estuary (Crassostrea gasar also

known as tulipa). Photo 2: Women harvesting oysters in the Densu Estuary with brush parks

(Acadjas) to attract fish in the background.

Photo Credit: Mariama Ashcroft, TRY Oyster Women’s Association

ii

Detailed Partner Contact Information: USAID/Ghana Sustainable Fisheries Management Project (SFMP)

10 Obodai St., Mempeasem, East Legon, Accra, Ghana Telephone: +233 0302 542497 Fax: +233 0302 542498

Brian Crawford Chief of Party brian@crc.uri.edu

Najih Lazar Senior Fisheries Advisor nlazar@crc.uri.edu

Patricia Mensah Communications Officer patricia.sfmp@crcuri.org

Bakari Nyari Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist hardinyari.sfmp@crcuri.org

Don Robadue, Jr. Project Manager, CRC don@crc.uri.edu

Justice Odoi USAID Administrative Officer Representative Jodoi@usaid.gov

Kofi.Agbogah

kagbogah@henmpoano.org

Stephen Kankam

skankam@henmpoano.org

Hen Mpoano

38 J. Cross Cole St. Windy Ridge

Takoradi, Ghana

233 312 020 701

Andre de Jager

adejager@snvworld.org

SNV Netherlands Development Oganization

#161, 10 Maseru Road,

E. Legon, Accra, Ghana

233 30 701 2440

Donkris Mevuta

Kyei Yamoah

info@fonghana.org

Friends of the Nation

Parks and Gardens

Adiembra-Sekondi, Ghana

233 312 046 180

Peter Owusu Donkor

Spatial Solutions

powusu-donkor@spatialdimension.net

#3 Third Nautical Close,

Nungua, Accra, Ghana

233 020 463 4488

Thomas Buck

tom@ssg-advisors.com

SSG Advisors

182 Main Street

Burlington, VT 05401

(802) 735-1162

Victoria C. Koomson

cewefia@gmail.com

CEWEFIA

B342 Bronyibima Estate

Elmina, Ghana

233 024 427 8377

Lydia Sasu

daawomen@daawomen.org

DAA

Darkuman Junction, Kaneshie Odokor Highway

Accra, Ghana

233 302 315894

Gifty Asmah

giftyasmah@Daasgift.org

Daasgift Quality Foundation

Headmaster residence, Sekondi College

Sekondi, Western Region, Ghana

233 243 326 178

For additional information on partner activities:

CRC/URI: http://www.crc.uri.edu

CEWEFIA: http://cewefia.weebly.com/

DAA: http://womenthrive.org/development-action-association-daa

Daasgift: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Daasgift-Quality-Foundation-

FNGO/135372649846101

Friends of the Nation: http://www.fonghana.org

Hen Mpoano: http://www.henmpoano.org

SNV: http://www.snvworld.org/en/countries/ghana

SSG Advisors: http://ssg-advisors.com/

Spatial Solutions: http://www.spatialsolutions.co/id1.html

iii

ACRONYMS

CRC Coastal Resources Center

DAA Development Action Association

PRA Participatory Rural Appraisal

SFMP Sustainable Fisheries Management Project

TRY TRY Oyster Women’s Association, The Gambia

URI The University of Rhode Island

USAID United States Agency for International Development

iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACRONYMS ........................................................................................................................... iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS .......................................................................................................... iv

LIST OF FIGURES ................................................................................................................... v

LIST OF TABLES ..................................................................................................................... v

INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................... 1

ORGANIZATION OF THE PRA STUDY ............................................................................... 1

RESULTS OF THE PRA STUDY ............................................................................................ 2

Principal Economic Activities in Bortianor/Tsokomey ......................................................... 2

Calendar of Economic Activities ........................................................................................... 4

Mapping of Oyster Harvesting and Mangrove Areas ............................................................ 4

Chain of Activities in Oyster Harvesting and Processing ...................................................... 9

Constraints and Solutions Along the Value Chain .............................................................. 13

Assessment of Historical Trends in Resources and Users ................................................... 13

Collection Effort .................................................................................................................. 17

Relationship with other Communities and Users................................................................. 19

Impact of Oyster Harvesting ................................................................................................ 19

Good and Harmful Practices ................................................................................................ 20

CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................................ 21

RECOMMENDATIONS ......................................................................................................... 22

APPENDIX 1: TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES, OYSTER

HARVESTING, BORTIANOR/TSOKOMEY ....................................................................... 24

APPENDIX 2: DAA PRA GUIDE FOR OYSTER FISHERY MANAGEMENT IN

TSOKOMEY VILLAGE, GREATER ACCRA REGION, GHANA, JANUARY 30 – 31,

2017.......................................................................................................................................... 26

APPENDIX 3: DAA PRA TIMETABLE, BORTIANOR/TSOKOMEY, GREATER

ACCRA, GHANA, JANUARY 30TH AND 31ST 2017 ........................................................ 29

v

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Women carry loads of fish as an important income generating activity ..................... 2

Figure 2 A participant explains that deep water oyster harvesting is his main livelihood ........ 3 Figure 3 Average Monthly Precipitation ................................................................................... 3 Figure 4 A PRA community participant drawing on the Densu estuary map ........................... 5 Figure 5 Map of the Densu Estuary showing oyster harvesting areas. Credit: Justice Mensah,

Hen Mpoano............................................................................................................................... 6

Figure 6 Flexi-banner with Google site image with locations of oyster harvesting and

mangrove areas and names drawn by harvesters ....................................................................... 7 Figure 7 Gambia oysters grow on aerial mangrove roots in the Tanbi Wetlands National Park.

.................................................................................................................................................... 9

Figure 8 In Ghana in the Densu River estuary oysters grow on the substrate at the bottom of

the estuary .................................................................................................................................. 9 Figure 9 women demonstrate harvesting oysters during the PRA in Densu. .......................... 10 Figure 10 Harvested oysters..................................................................................................... 10

Figure 11 Labor Hours for Chain of Activities in Oyster Harvesting and Processing ............ 12 Figure 12 Total Labor Hours for Oyster Harvesting and Processing ...................................... 12 Figure 13 Number of People Harvesting ................................................................................. 14 Figure 14 Number of Boats Harvesting ................................................................................... 14

Figure 15 Trend in Extent of Harvest Area ............................................................................. 15 Figure 16 Trend in Density of Oysters .................................................................................... 16

Figure 17 Trend in Size of Oysters .......................................................................................... 16 Figure 18 Trend in Fuelwood Availability .............................................................................. 17

Figure 19 Average Time Taken to Collect Oysters ................................................................. 18 Figure 20 Average Distance Traveled to Collect Oysters (km) ............................................... 18

Figure 21 Average Baskets Collected per Trip ........................................................................ 19 Figure 22 Piles of oyster shells adjacent to where women steam and shuck oysters, in the

yards of oyster harvesters......................................................................................................... 21

Figure 23 Executive Committee of the oyster harvesting group formed with support of DAA

.................................................................................................................................................. 22

Figure 24 Water quality testing equipment provided by SFMP for training oyster harvesters

in water quality testing and monitoring ................................................................................... 23

Figure 25 Floating baskets used by fishers .............................................................................. 24

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1 Calendar of Economic Activities .................................................................................. 4 Table 2 Characteristics, ecological and social functions, use rights, trends and constraints ..... 8 Table 3 Constraints and solutions along the value chain ......................................................... 13 Table 4 Good and Harmful Practices ....................................................................................... 20

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INTRODUCTION

This report is a synthesis of the results of a Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)

commissioned by the Sustainable Fisheries Management Project (SFMP), in partnership with

Development Action Association (DAA) and the women fisher folk at Tsokomey in the

Bortianor municipality of the Greater Accra Region. The purpose of the PRA was to assess

prospects for development of a community based management plan for oyster harvesting as a

sustainable livelihood and food security venture in the Densu River estuary. The Densu

Delta was designated as a RAMSAR site in 1992, recognizing it as a protected wetland of

international importance under the International Convention on Wetlands. A management

plan for the Delta was developed in 1999, but did not make reference to oyster harvesting

activities.

More than 100 fisher folk and traditional leaders from the community, 90 percent of whom

were women, participated in the two-day appraisal from January 30th

to 31st, 2017. During the

appraisal, they assessed the ecological and socioeconomic status of the areas. They shared

local knowledge of the history of oyster fishery in the Densu Estuary, identified significant

sites, shared their experiences with using the river resources, and identified the opportunities

and challenges in sustainable oyster harvesting and conservation management.

The information collected from the PRA will be applied to the development of a Community-

based Management and Conservation Plan that will contribute to sustainable economic

benefits for women and men oyster harvesters in Bortianor and a healthy estuary and

ecosystem. The management plan will be developed by the women and men oyster harvesters

in a participatory process with other stakeholders and facilitated by DAA. It will include

vision, objectives, actions, and institutional framework to empower the women and men

oyster harvesters to be the stewards, managers and rights holders of the oyster fishery

resources in the Densu Estuary.

ORGANIZATION OF THE PRA STUDY

Prior to conducting the PRA, the facilitation team, staff of DAA, and a number of women

harvesters visited one of the oyster harvesting sites to witness how oyster harvesting is done

in this area. This was an eye opener for the Gambian team because of the vast difference in

collection practice in The Gambia. Led by DAA Executive Director Mrs. Lydia Sasu, the

team also paid a courtesy call to the Tsokomey Chief Fisherman and the Bortianor River

Priest. The purpose of the visit was to officially inform them about the plan for a PRA study

in the village and request their participation. During the course of the visits the team learned

of a misunderstanding in the community about the reason for conducting a PRA and were

able to address the situation. There were fears that outsiders were coming to buy the river or

that the local priest would close the river to resource users. The realization that the PRA

team was facilitated by leaders from a civil society women’s oyster harvesting association

from a neighboring West African country was a welcome and reassuring factor.

Participants in the study were mainly villagers from the Ewe tribe and a few from the Ga

traditional land owners. Officials from the Fishery Commission and the District Department

of Agriculture also participated. The program was launched with remarks from Ga and Ewe

community leaders (Chief Fishermen and representatives of the river priest). Plenary and

small group sessions were organized to share knowledge and information guided by a series

of questions, each group facilitated by DAA staff (see Appendix 2 for the PRA Guide and

Appendix 3 for the timetable). The groups presented the results of their discussions in plenary

and received feedback from other participants. Individual interviews were conducted with

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leaders to get a deeper understanding of the dynamics in relationships between the Ewe and

Ga.

RESULTS OF THE PRA STUDY

Principal Economic Activities in Bortianor/Tsokomey

Most of the population living in the Bortianor/Tsokomey area are fisher folk or engaged in

activities along the fishery value chain. River fishing and fish processing are the most

common sources of income for families.

The women who represent the target group for the DAA/SFMP sustainable livelihoods

initiative mostly engage in low value-added activities such as fish cleaning and carrying loads

of fish on their heads from the landing site (fish porter).

Figure 1 Women carry loads of fish as an important income generating activity

Photo credit: TRY

This group represents the poorest in the community, mostly young women in their 20s and

30s. Although oyster harvesting is common among this group, it is not considered a

significant source of income. One of the PRA participants summed it up this way "I came to

Tsokomey from Volta region specially to carry fish load because I heard that it is a lucrative

activity. Here oyster harvesting is not an occupation" (PRA participant Korkor who migrated

from Volta Region, 1/30/2017). A community elder also stated that in the past, oysters were

eaten only out of necessity when there was no fish. Agbeko Osofo, a 21-year old man

engaged in deep water oyster harvesting said that oyster harvesting is his main occupation

because he could not find better paying work. He believes that, with the PRA and oyster

promotion campaign, the activity will become more profitable. Osofo rents a canoe at 10

cedi a day. He paddles himself, sometimes he is alone or with his brother.

3

Figure 2 A participant explains that deep water oyster harvesting is his main livelihood

Photo credit: TRY

The fisher folk do not observe any official closed season. However, they cease all activities

on the river and its estuary during a six week period between August and October in

observance of the Homowo customary rites. Activities cease the last two weeks in August

before the annual festival held during the first two weeks of September. During the festival

activities recommence. After the festival, activities cease again for four weeks from mid-

September to mid-October. Shallow water oyster harvesting is exempted from this holiday in

recognition of the hardship status of those engaged in the activity.

A few women indicated that they also engage in deep water oyster harvesting but the activity

is dominated by men. It entails diving 12 to 20 feet under water to collect oysters along the

deeper sections of the estuary further away from the Tsokomey landing site. Although they

collect fewer oysters because they can remain under water for only a few seconds, the oyster

sizes in the area are much larger and make up for the smaller quantity picked. The oysters are

of a single species, Crassostrea gasar also known as Crassostrea tulipa.

Oyster harvesting begins “two months after Christmas when the oysters begin to smell like

human beings” (elderly Ga woman, 1/30/2017) and ends in August. The shallow oyster

harvesting period corresponds with Ghana’s major rainy season. Harvesting stops when water

is released from the dam due to heavy rain, but the release also brings large fish downstream.

Figure 3 Average Monthly Precipitation

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Calendar of Economic Activities

Table 1 Calendar of Economic Activities

Activity J F M A M J J A S O N D

River fishing* X X X X X X X X X X X X

Basket fishing X X X X X X X X X X X X

Shallow water oyster

harvesting

X X X X X X

Fish processing X X X X X Peak season X X X

Fresh fish sale X X X X X Peak season X X X

Sale of food (fried fish,

porridge, corn dough)

X X X X X X X X X X X X

Deep river oyster

harvesting*

X X X X X X X X X X X X

Fish cleaning at landing site X X X X X X X X X X X X

Fish porter X X X X X X X X X X X X

Paid labor for coastal and

community cleaning

X X X X X X X X X X X X

River transport (paddle

canoe)*

X X X X X X X X X X X X

(*asterisk) denotes activities that are dominated by men

Mapping of Oyster Harvesting and Mangrove Areas

The group identified surrounding settlements, outlined their collection areas, site names,

identified tributaries, key species, habitats, historical sites, etc. The group assessed the

vegetation status; identified key sites for aquatic species such as fishes, crabs, etc.

Five main Oyster Collection sites were identified (Figure 1). These are Nayo, Kpovoduvo,

Kele, Hoga Nukaji and The Bortianor/Tsokomey Estuary. Three of the sites are currently

active. Hoga Nukaji and the estuary have been abandoned due to depleted stock. The sites

have varying characteristics which determine not only the level of exploitation, but also the

gender dynamics in the oyster fishery.

NAYO

This is the area east of Bojo Beach Resort. The name of the site is derived from the name of

the 2 tributaries in the area- Nayo Bibioo (small) and Nayo Agboo (big). The Nayo collection

site is relatively shallow and flanked by “stressed” mangrove stands. The size, extent and

density of oysters at this site have declined significantly over the past years. This women

dominated site is also noted for other activities like fishing with brush parks (ategya) and

crab harvesting.

KPOVODUVO

This area is also dominated by women oyster harvesters. It is the shallow waters near Faana-

a fishing community situated on the sandbar. Oyster gathering is concentrated at the eastern

part of the site, where the water is relatively deeper. The mangroves that covered the banks of

5

the river have all been cut for fuel or brush parks, exposing the water and the oysters to direct

heat from the sun.

KELE

Kele is the home of big oysters. The water is deep reaching up to about 16 feet in depth.

Though some brave women harvesters work at this site, more men are involved in oyster

picking than women at this site. Due to the depth of the water, one is required to dive and

stay in the water long enough to pick a handful of very big oysters. The risk involved in this

method deters many women from harvesting oysters at this site.

Figure 4 A PRA community participant drawing on the Densu estuary map

Photo credit: TRY

.

6

Figure 5 Map of the Densu Estuary showing oyster harvesting areas. Credit: Justice Mensah, Hen Mpoano.

7

Figure 6 Flexi-banner with Google site image with locations of oyster harvesting and mangrove areas and names drawn by harvesters

8

Table 2 Characteristics, ecological and social functions, use rights, trends and constraints

Site Name Characteristics Ecological Function Social Functions User Rights Trends and Constraints

NAYO (Big

and Small) Shallow

Few mangroves with fish

traps

Fish

Mangroves

providing habitat

for fish

Birds

Crabs

Tourism

Customary rites

during the Homowo

festival- No picking

is done for six

weeks-2 weeks

before the festival

and 4 weeks after

Open Access

Restricted access

by the

management of

Bojo beach along

the inlet of Nayo

Bibioo

Difficult access to oyster

sites due to mangrove

degradation

Longer distance

Deeper water

HUMOO Shallow-deeper on the

eastern side

Very scanty mangroves

Fish traps-bush parks

Located between the

sandbar and the vast

wetland

Birds

Fish

Tourism

Customary rites

Open access Intrusion of fresh water

from the Weija Dam

leads to the death of

oysters

HOGA

NUKAJI Shallow- due to

accumulated sediments

from the Weija dam

inflows

Mangroves have been left

to rejuvenate naturally

after extensive cutting

Fish (tilapia) Tourism

Customary rites

Open access Previous site for big

oysters. Site used to be

very deep, but has

accumulated sediments

from the load carried by

the water from the Weija

dam

VUGAME Deep Habitat for big oysters

Habitat for wide

varieties of fishes

(mudfish, shrimps,

anchovies, crabs)

Tourism

Customary rites

Open Access Insect/parasites

Water can be very cold

making diving and

staying in the water

difficult

9

Chain of Activities in Oyster Harvesting and Processing

In Tsokomey, oysters are picked from the river bed in mostly shallow water and the entire

chain of activities, from picking to marketing and selling, is carried out on the same day. In

The Gambia and Senegal on the other hand, the activities last three to five days and oysters

grow on the aerial roots of mangroves where they are harvested by removing them with an

axe to protect the roots. In Ghana in the Densu River estuary, oysters grow on the substrate at

the bottom of the estuary. The oyster species are the same (Crassostrea gasar also known as

tulipa).

Figure 7 Gambia oysters grow on aerial mangrove roots in the Tanbi Wetlands National Park.

Figure 8 In Ghana in the Densu River estuary oysters grow on the substrate at the bottom of the estuary

Photo Credit: TRY

10

Walking to Nayo and Kpovodu tributaries

Most of the women walk along the river’s edge to get to their collection sites, taking around

30 minutes from the landing site. It used to be a shorter walk before the Bojo Beach Hotel

was built and installed an electric fence around its perimeter, blocking the short way to the

tributary where the women pick oysters. Canoe rides are a faster option but cost concerns

limit their use to transporting oysters after picking and sometimes women share the cost.

Canoes are used for harvesting on sites further upstream, such as Vugame.

Picking

The women pick as individuals and spend 2 to 3 hours. They stand in the water which reaches

about 1 foot up their leg. They wear improvised socks and gloves made of old clothing. They

use metal bowls to collect the oysters. At left, women demonstrate harvesting oysters during

the PRA. Normally they would have individual basins. Brush parks (ed Acadjas in Ga or

Atidza in Ewe) are in the background. They attract fish and create spawning habitat and are

often made of mangrove sticks.

Figure 9 women demonstrate harvesting oysters during the PRA in Densu.

Figure 10 Harvested oysters

Photo credit TRY

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They collect 2 to 3 baskets full of oysters at the end of a day’s work. They have noticed that

the quantity of oysters is declining and the individual sizes are getting smaller. Often, they

find tiny 1 inch sized tilapia fingerlings hiding in the shell of the oysters which the women

also collect for cooking. Life vests are not used because the water is shallow.

Transporting to the landing site

They rent a paddle canoe at 15 cedis per trip, with the canoe owner paddling. Two to three

women use the canoe together and share the cost. The trip takes 15 to 20 minutes from the

collection site to the landing site. From the landing site, they carry the loads of oysters on

their head to their homes.

Washing oysters

Oysters are washed at the women’s homes using clean water and bare hands to remove the

black sand covering them. Washing with bare hands, however, is likely not thorough enough

to completely remove the sand.

Broiling oysters

The oysters are broiled in their shell in a cooking pot for 15 to 20 minutes. They buy

firewood at 1 cedi per bundle.

Shucking

The women use knives to shuck the oysters (taking the meat out of the shell). This takes 1 to

2 hours for a day’s collection. Some women use gloves to protect their hands during this

activity.

Rinsing

The shucked oyster meat is rinsed in clean water with salt and left to drip in a basket. This

takes 10 minutes.

Marketing/selling

Oysters are arranged in heaps and placed on a tray to be sold. Children sometimes walk

around the community to sell. The oysters sell out as soon as the community is aware they are

available. They are a cheap source of food in the community, selling at 1 cedi for 40 average-

sized pieces.

12

Figure 11 Labor Hours for Chain of Activities in Oyster Harvesting and Processing

Figure 12 Total Labor Hours for Oyster Harvesting and Processing

13

Constraints and Solutions Along the Value Chain

Table 3 Constraints and solutions along the value chain

Activity Constraints Solutions

1. Oyster

Harvesting

Inadequate protective working gear

Lack of personal boat for harvesting

(this mostly applies to women oyster

pickers)

Inadequate diving skills which limits

access to deep water areas where

oysters abound (mostly, this relates to

women)

Provision of proper and

adequate oyster working gear

Training in diving skills and

health & safety skills in the

river

2. Processing Inadequate sustainable fire wood for

broiling oysters

Extended shucking time (scooping of

oyster meat from shells can be time

consuming for a large volume of

oysters)

Improve energy efficient cook

stoves

Group work and more hired

labor

3. Marketing Low price of fresh oyster meat

No access to external markets. Oysters

are only sold within the local

community

No value addition of the fresh oysters

(processing into other finished

products)

Training in oyster value

addition

Linking harvesters to new

markets outside the local

community, e.g., hotels

Promotion campaign for

consumer awareness on the

nutritional and commercial

value of oysters

Assessment of Historical Trends in Resources and Users

Number of people

The study shows that there has been increasing pressure on the oyster resources in the past 30

years, with more people engaged in the activity in recent years. The local perception is that

the number of harvesters has increased from 150 people 30 years ago to 400 presently. The

number of people involved in oyster fisheries has increased despite the large number of

injuries sustained by users.

14

Number of boats

Fewer boats were used 30 years ago because the harvesting sites were closer to the edge of

the river estuary. This number increased to 20 in the past 10 years due to more people

harvesting and the erosion of the river pushing the sites further away from the edge. Men own

and paddle the canoes, and charge a fee when the women use it to transport their oysters.

Only one woman in the PRA group owns a canoe.

Description of practices

Thirty years ago, mangroves had oysters which users harvested by scraping with a knife.

They were also picked from the river bed. The day’s collection was transported in canoes to

Figure 14 Number of Boats Harvesting

Figure 13 Number of People Harvesting

15

the landing site. Participants reported that picking solely from the river bed started about10

years ago, following the depletion of mangroves caused by destructive collection practices

and the impact of the Weija Dam. Now, the women walk or hire canoes depending on the

distance to the site. They test for the presence of oysters by hitting the river bed with the

paddle. They cover their feet with improvised socks made out of old clothing.

Extent of oyster sites

The extent of the sites where oysters are located has been declining over the past 30 years,

some sites experiencing a more aggressive decline than others. The rate of reduction at

Kele/Wegame, which is more distant, has been slower than others. The sites close to the Bojo

Beach Hotel are undergoing a more rapid reduction in area and have suffered a more

aggressive cutting of mangroves over the past 30 years.

Figure 15 Trend in Extent of Harvest Area

Density of oyster population

Density in Kele/Wegame has remained unchanged over the past 30 years. This area is

primarily used for deep under water harvesting and remains undisturbed for periods of time.

Nayo, on the other hand, is depleting rapidly and Kpovodudo less so. The reduction in

density is associated with sedimentation and erosion caused by periodic fresh water inflows

from the Weija Dam.

16

Figure 16 Trend in Density of Oysters

Size of oysters

All the sites have witnessed a decrease in the size of individual oysters, some more than

others. Oysters in Kele/Wegame have seen a small rate of decrease, from a 5 rating 30 years

ago to a 4 in the past 10 years. Kpovoduvo has seen the highest rate in size reduction, from a

5 rating 30 years ago to a 1 presently. The primary reason for size reduction is

overexploitation.

Figure 17 Trend in Size of Oysters

17

Fuelwood

In the past mangroves were cut for fuelwood and construction. Most of the mangroves have

been cut over the past 30 years. Now fishers cut mangroves to use as brush park (ategya) to

trap fish. One of the PRA participants, when informed that mangrove cutting is bad practice,

exclaimed “what do we do if we do not cut the mangroves?” Some of the degraded

mangroves in the brush parks rejuvenate and sprout new roots and stems. This could be a

source of seedlings for rehabilitation.

Collection Effort

Duration

Until five years ago, oyster collection along the Densu estuary could be done close to the

edge of the river, thus not requiring canoe transportation. Travel from the village to the

collection site took 5 minutes. The shore line was thick with mangroves where oysters grew.

Participants claim that until 10 years ago, deposits of sand were observed where mangroves

with oysters grew, and that the opening of the Weija Dam destroyed the domes along with the

mangroves. As collection was primarily for food and not commercial, family members

collected just enough for the day’s consumption. Now it takes at least 1 hour on foot and 30

minutes by canoe to get to the nearest collection site.

Figure 18 Trend in Fuelwood Availability

18

Figure 19 Average Time Taken to Collect Oysters

Distance

With the shoreline of the estuary hosting oysters, the community did not have to travel far to

the collection sites and did not travel beyond the location where Bojo Beach Hotel is

presently located. Thirty years ago, they travelled less than 0.5 kilometer to collect, whereas

now they travel at least 6 kilometers.

Figure 20 Average Distance Traveled to Collect Oysters (km)

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Quantity harvested

Thirty years ago, as earlier mentioned, harvesting was only for family consumption. Because

of the close proximity of collection sites, families could collect several times a day to meet

the quantities required for the family needs. Ten years ago, as oysters started to have

economic value, collectors picked up to 5 harvesting baskets per trip. This quantity has since

reduced to 3 baskets.

Income

Until 10 years ago, oysters were not sold. Since then the income generated per trip has

changed from 2 cedis (at the value of the late 1990s), to 20 cedis in the early 2000s and now

10 cedis per trip.

Relationship with other Communities and Users

Oyster harvesters enjoy open access to the resources, without restrictions. For the most part,

other users of the resources in the estuary are family members. Oyster pickers may travel on

the canoes owned or operated by fishers or encounter them on their way to the collection

sites. Other communities that pick from the same location, for example from Tunga, may

compete for collection space but this is quickly resolved as they move to other sites.

The likelihood for conflict occurs with fish trappers who set up their brush parks close to sites

used by oyster pickers. However, any tension that may arise is resolved before it escalates.

Impact of Oyster Harvesting

Participants agreed that oyster harvesting has both positive and negative impact on

individuals, families, the community, and the environment.

Positive impact

Oysters are a significant food source high in protein and minerals and therefore

contribute to food security. They presently exist in abundance and are low cost.

The sale of oysters helps in diversifying livelihoods, thereby contributing to poverty

reduction.

Figure 21 Average Baskets Collected per Trip

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Oyster shells are used in building construction – as filling for foundations and as an

ingredient in paint. Shells are also used to fill mud houses to prevent erosion during

heavy rainfall and to fill flooded areas

Shells are used in the cosmetic industry as an ingredient in face powder.

They are used in animal husbandry as an ingredient in animal feed and medication for

poultry and livestock.

The leftover liquid in the shell after the meat is removed is used to stop bleeding and

the shells are used to treat wounds.

Mangroves have the potential to host oysters. More sustainable oyster management

practices would encourage mangrove protection, regeneration and re-establishment,

improving habitat for different animal and plant species that contribute to

biodiversity. Mangroves are breeding grounds for fish and they host birds and insects.

Negative impact

Continuous exposure to river water alters skin color and causes red eyes, especially

during diving expeditions. The practice of women carrying heavy loads of oysters and

fish on their heads can have damaging effect on their health.

Unknown pathogens or insects are present in the river and cause skin lesions to oyster

pickers and other users.

Oyster shells have been the cause of serious injury because of poor picking and

handling techniques without the use of protective gear. The abrasive nature of the

shells causes injury to children when not properly disposed of.

Fishermen from a neighboring village use glass bottle traps which, when broken, can

cause injury to oyster pickers.

Although the water in the river appears clean, waste management is a problem along

the shoreline. The nearby refuse dump serves as a breeding area for mosquitoes and

other insects. Some inhabitants use the shore and river as toilet.

The opening of the Weija Dam carries waste downstream and affects the river. The

unfettered cutting of mangroves exacerbates the problem.

Good and Harmful Practices

Table 4 Good and Harmful Practices

Good practices Harmful practices

When the dam is opened, it helps in

good harvest. Fishermen get bigger

tilapia and other fish species

Uses of shells

- Building foundation

- Paint

- Cosmetics: face powder

1. Picking oysters without the use of protective gear

2. Broken bottles from tilapia harvest are left in the

water. Women harvesters are wounded from

these broken bottles

3. Fish traps are sometimes destroyed by high tide

or from the dam when it is opened for water

flow- debris from fish traps harm oyster pickers

4. Empty shells left on the shoreline after

processing cut people’s feet

5. Mangrove cutting

6. Dark sediment in areas near heavily used or

unflushed dead-end areas of the estuary.

Perceived as caused by the Dam

7. Dumping of refuse at river banks

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Figure 22 Piles of oyster shells adjacent to where women steam and shuck oysters, in the yards of oyster harvesters.

Photo Credit: SFMP

CONCLUSION

The PRA has shown that prospects exist to develop a community based management plan for

sustainable oyster harvesting as a livelihood diversification strategy for the women of

Tsokomey/Bortianor. Oyster stock is in decline due to over-exploitation and loss of habitat as

demonstrated by the trends documented in this PRA. Oyster harvesters go farther and spend

longer but collect fewer oysters. Catch per unit effort is in decline. There has been a major

loss of mangroves primarily from cutting by local communities. There is a critical need to

protect and improve habitat and sustainably manage harvest rates. Opportunity exists for

value chain improvements in collection techniques, post-harvest processing and marketing.

Market awareness of the economic and nutritional value of oysters is low.

With the support of DAA, the women harvesters have formed groups as a first step in

developing the management and governance capacity needed to achieve sustainable

economic benefits for the women and men oyster harvesters and a healthy estuary and

ecosystem. This will be an ongoing process that is expected to culminate in a community-

based co-management and conservation plan.

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Figure 23 Executive Committee of the oyster harvesting group formed with support of DAA

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. DAA should follow up with the Government of Ghana and other institutions involved in

the management of RAMSAR sites in Ghana and the Densu Delta to understand the status

of the December 1999 Densu Delta RAMSAR Site Management Plan and the 2008

National Wetlands Conservation Strategy and Action Plan (2007-2016).

2. DAA should continue to facilitate the process of supporting oyster harvesters to organize

in a representative manner as well as the process of establishing an officially recognized

legal entity oyster harvester’s association.

3. Women and men oyster harvesters should consider management measures to enhance and

sustain the resource in the future. They should continue the participatory co-management

process and the following process recommendations:

Continue mapping and stakeholder analysis.

Educate stakeholders (in particular harvesters and DAA) on oyster ecology and

biology and on water quality. Continue linkage with the University of Cape Coast for

this.

DAA and the executive committee should consider if they can themselves collect

additional oyster value chain information to inform their management planning.

Select management actions and develop a monitoring plan.

Consider implementation of early actions that promote good stewardship of the

estuary and oyster fishery such as mangrove replanting or oyster reef restoration

Consider peer learning study tours to other locations in Ghana where mangrove

harvesting and restoration are taking place, and The Gambia and Benin where oyster

harvesting and management take place.

Focus on capacity building, including training in post-harvest processing

4. Loss of habitat seems to be a significant factor in the reduction in catch per unit effort of

oysters over the last 3 decades documented in this PRA. Take actions such as mangrove

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planting and restoration. This could include a study tour to Ghana’s Western Region to

see the mangrove nursery established there.

5. Train women and men oyster harvesters in water quality testing.

6. Raise awareness among leaders and the population in surrounding communities about the

importance of protecting the Densu estuary ecosystem and its biodiversity.

Figure 24 Water quality testing equipment provided by SFMP for training oyster harvesters in water quality testing and monitoring

Photo credit: TRY

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APPENDIX 1: TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES, OYSTER HARVESTING, BORTIANOR/TSOKOMEY

Traditional knowledge, attitudes, myths, beliefs, and practices

1. Oyster harvesting is not a full time occupation or livelihood or a major commercial

activity. "I came to Tsokomey from Volta region specially to carry fish load because I

heard that it is a lucrative activity. Here oyster harvesting is not an occupation" (PRA

participant Korkor who migrated from Volta Region, 1/30/2017).

2. Oysters are picked primarily to feed the family, not to sell. “Traditionally oysters served

as alternative to fish. When the fish catch is low, oysters were harvested for the meal.

During rainy season, something happened to the oysters because they died. Also when the

dam overflows, the oysters die” (Community elder, 1/30/2017). Note that scientific

knowledge documents that lack of salinity (i.e., if the estuary stays fresh for very long

periods) is a cause of oyster mortality.

3. Oyster harvesting begins when oysters begin to smell like human beings (traditional Ga

myth)

4. All river fishing is halted for 6 weeks between August and October during the Homowo

customary rites presided by the river priest

5. Oyster harvesters travel in search of oysters because oysters “travel” (move from one

location to another. Note that scientific knowledge indicates that oysters do not move.

Perhaps the perception is due to changing habitat and changing oyster abundance in

certain locations.

6. Oysters used to grow on mangroves about 30 years ago. They adapted to the change in

environment as the mangroves were depleting.

7. Basket fishers tie plastic bottles on the baskets to allow them to float. Fish are unable to

jump back into the water once they get into the basket

Figure 25 Floating baskets used by fishers

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Interview with Peter Oblitey Amui, representative of Sakumo Family in Bortianor

The Ewe settled in Tsokomey, land owned by the Sakumo family. The forefathers allocated

Tsokomey because Ewe are traditionally river fishers whereas Ga are sea fishers. Peter has

seen an agreement from his grandfather giving land to Ewe to settle. In the past Ewe paid

levy to Ga owners; Peter believes this practice should be restored because the Ewe youth do

not respect the traditional ownership and historical relationship; do not pay homage to the

traditional Ga leaders and do not believe in the river god. The Sakumo family leased land to

Bojo Beach Hotel owners. There is no tension or conflict between Ewe and Ga in Bortianor.

Customary Ga rites require the river to be closed for 2 weeks from last week of August and

first week of October. Some Ewe find it hard to comply with the closing because of poverty.

Culprits are asked to pay a fine, and pressure is used to ensure payments.

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APPENDIX 2: DAA PRA GUIDE FOR OYSTER FISHERY MANAGEMENT IN TSOKOMEY VILLAGE, GREATER ACCRA

REGION, GHANA, JANUARY 30 – 31, 2017

INTRODUCTION

Development Action Association (DAA) is planning to develop and implement a

Community-based Management and Conservation Plan. The goal of the Plan is to ensure

sustainable economic benefits for women oyster harvesters in Bortianor and maintain a

healthy estuary and ecosystem in which oysters thrive. The management plan will be

developed by the women oyster harvesters and include vision, objectives, actions, and

institutional framework to empower the women to be the stewards, managers and rights

holders of the oyster fishery resources in the Densu Estuary.

This Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) is the first step in the development of the

Community-based Management and Conservation Plan. The communities will assess the

ecological and socioeconomic status of the surrounding area. They will share the history of

oyster fishery in the Densu Estuary, highlight their experiences, and identify the opportunities

and challenges in oyster harvesting and conservation management.

SESSION 1: SOCIO-ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES

1. What kind of work do you do to earn a living? Is this the only activity you work on? Let’s

list the different activities you do during the year.

Calendar of economic activities

Activity J F M A M J J A S O N D

2. Let’s look at your oyster harvesting activity in more detail. How does it work? List

different things you do as part of oyster harvesting, how long each step takes, and the

resources you use

Chain of activities for oyster harvesting

Activity Site Time estimate Resources used Trend Observation

3. Site Mapping: Using the GPS map provided, the group will identify surrounding

settlements, outline their collection site boundaries, identify local names of sites, identify

tributaries, key species habitats, historical sites, etc. Assess the vegetation status, identify

key sites for aquatic species such as fishes, crabs, etc

Site Name Characteristics Ecological

function

Social

functions

User

rights

Trends and

Constraints

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4. Estimate the number of persons engaged in oyster harvesting in this location over the past

30 years

Activity Now 5 years

ago

10 years ago 30 years ago Observations

Number of

people

Number of

boats

Description of

practices

5. How much effort does it normally take for collection?

Activity Now 5 years

ago

10 years ago 30 years ago Observations

Duration

Distance

Quantity

harvested

Income

6. What type of relationship exists with neighboring communities and other users?

Community/User

type

Type of

relationship

Frequency of

interaction

Type of

Conflict, if any

How is the

conflict

resolved?

7. What is the impact that different activities have on the environment and wellbeing of

families and the communities?

Positive impact Negative impact

Your own activity

Other activities in

the location

SESSION II. ASSESSMENT OF RESOURCES

8. Using a scale of 1 to 5 to represent declining and increasing status, assess the state of the

resources in the river. Use a new chart to assess different sites where applicable.

Status of

Oysters

Now 5 years ago 10 years ago 30 years ago Observations

Extent

Density

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Size of oysters

Fuel wood

9. Do you own or rent the boat you use for collection? If you rent, tell us the amount and

frequency of payment.

10. What are some practices that are good or harmful for the river?

Good practices Harmful practices

11. For each activity in the value chain, what are the constraints and recommended solutions?

Activity Constraints Solutions

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APPENDIX 3: DAA PRA TIMETABLE, BORTIANOR/TSOKOMEY, GREATER ACCRA, GHANA, JANUARY 30TH AND 31ST 2017

SETTING UP THE PRA VENUE

a. Assign participants from same community or same stakeholder group to the same

table. Each group shall have between 8 and 10 persons. Everyone will have a name

tag with group number and name of village/community or type of stakeholder

b. Appoint two facilitators for each group, one to record on the flipchart and the other to

facilitate the discussion

c. Provide a flip chart pad and markers for each group

d. Facilitators will draw blank charts on flipchart to record participants’ responses (see

PRA questionnaire for examples of charts)

Timetable

Time Monday 01/30/2017 Tuesday 01/31/2017

09:00 – 09:30 PRA Introduction

Opening prayers

Opening by officials (SFMP,

DAA, Community Leader)

Experience sharing by TRY-

Gambia

Plenary Session

Recap and validate Day 1 results

09:30 – 11:30 Plenary Session

Overview of PRA Methodology

and tools

Type and calendar of economic

activities

Site Mapping exercise by Justice

Mensah, Hen Mpoano

Oyster value chain analysis

Group Session (Ques 7, 8, 9)

Impact of activities

Assessment of resources

11:30 – 1:30 Group Session

Historical trends in resource

availability and effort (Ques. 4 & 5)

Group Session (Ques 10 & 11)

Good and harmful practices

Constraints and recommended

solutions

1:30 – 2:30 Lunch Break Lunch Break

2:30 – 4:00 Group Session

Assessment of relationship quality

among communities and users

Plenary

Discussion of summary PRA

results

Next steps: Training in Oyster

ecology and biology by Sheila

Fynn-Korsah, UCC

Closing and group photograph